Speaker Drops Hammer: ‘Serpent’s’ Entire Speech Wiped from Parliamentary Records
In an almost unheard-of move, House Speaker Sir Osbert Frederick has erased from the official records every word spoken by St. George’s MP Algernon “Serpent” Watts during the March 3 debate on the Road Traffic Amendment Act.
The Speaker’s decision, announced in Parliament on Monday, stunned the chamber. Rarely, if ever, has a sitting member’s full contribution been scrubbed from Hansard, the permanent record of parliamentary proceedings.
At the centre of the controversy is Watt’s reliance on a document from which he quoted extensively. When pressed by St. John’s City East MP Melford Nicholas to table the source, Watt promised to produce it before the day’s end. He never did.
After repeated reminders and even a formal letter from the Speaker, Watts doubled down — not in the House, but on his radio show — calling Frederick’s letter “threatening” and boasting that, as an MP, he was “protected” by the Constitution.
Frederick dismissed that claim as “laughable” and lowered the gavel with a ruling that could reshape parliamentary practice: no member will be allowed to quote any document in debate unless it is first submitted to the Clerk.
And then came the thunderbolt — the Speaker ordered the Clerk to strike Watt’s entire March 3 speech from the record, effectively making it as if “Serpent” had never spoken at all.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/08/26/speaker-drops-hammer-serpents-entire-speech-wiped-from-parliamentary-records. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Arry Simon and Garth Simon Represent Antigua and Barbuda at Pre-COP31 Climate Talks in Türkiye
The two Department of Environment officials are participating in preparatory discussions ahead of the global climate summit, where Antigua and Barbuda will be represented by a delegation led by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.
By Cory Wayland
Health Minister Michael Joseph Showcases Gray’s Green Eye Care Unit to Bloomberg Representative
Adrienne Pizatella and her team toured the community-based facility as Antigua and Barbuda continues efforts to expand access to essential vision care services.
By Cory Wayland
New Commonwealth Insurance Proposal Aims to Protect Nations Against Hurricanes and Climate Disasters
The Sustainable Markets Initiative has unveiled plans for a shared reinsurance system that could provide faster disaster payouts and more affordable protection for vulnerable Commonwealth countries.
By Cory Wayland
Health Minister Michael Joseph Calls for Greater Climate Financing and Renewable Energy Investment Ahead of COP31
Antigua and Barbuda is pushing for stronger financial support for vulnerable nations, regional energy cooperation and a fair transition away from fossil fuels.
By Cory Wayland
Comments (6)
vance August 26, 2025, 7:49 AM
Mindy August 26, 2025, 7:50 AM
Apex Jones August 26, 2025, 7:58 AM
This is certainly unheard of. Then again they hardly make any contributions in Parliament so it’s neither here nor there
Shines August 26, 2025, 8:37 AM
King goat August 27, 2025, 8:47 PM
Informed citizen August 26, 2025, 3:00 PM